Employability Fund

The Employability Fund is a training programme for unemployed 16-25 year olds who want to gain the skills and experience needed to get a job.

What is it?

The Employability Fund is a training programme for unemployed 16-25 year olds who want to gain the skills and experience needed to get a job.

The training programmes aim to help individuals to gain confidence, employability skills, core skills, practical skills, certificates and work experience - ultimately making them more employable.

Training linked to a range of industries is available. Examples include construction, hairdressing, sports, hospitality, administration, retail etc. The type of training received will depend on the training provider you are with, and the work placements available with that provider.

The programme is flexible to meet your needs so there are no set times or days. Most programmes last 12-15 weeks while some are up to eight weeks. You'll train anywhere between 15-36 hours a week.

Depending on your circumstances you could get a training allowance of £55 a week plus travel expenses.

You don't need any formal qualifications to apply but you will need to have an interview and an assessment to make sure the course is right for you.

Once completed you'll be ready to progress to the next stage of the Employability Fund programme, apply for a modern apprenticeship or a college course, or look for employment.

Where is it?

There are a range of different locations within West Lothian including, Livingston, Bathgate and Blackridge

When could I start?

There are lots of start dates throughout the year! Some of the training providers are recruiting all of the time and others recruit at specific times of the year.

If you are interested in finding out more about opportunities through the Employability Fund then please contact Skills Development Scotland on 01506 434249.